The Beaver Supermoon is set to be the most radiant full moon of 2025, gracing the night sky from November 3 to 5. The peak viewing opportunity will occur early on November 5, when the moon reaches its greatest brightness. Notably, this supermoon is the closest full moon to Earth this year, occurring amid a series of four consecutive months featuring supermoons.
This lunar phenomenon, commonly referred to as the Hunter”s Moon or Beaver Moon, derives its name from various Indigenous cultures and European folklore. The timing of the Beaver Moon coincides with significant activities related to beavers, marking the period when they begin to seek shelter for the winter and are often hunted for their pelts due to their increased size.
In addition to its popular names, the November moon is also known as the Digging Moon, a term from the Tlingit culture that relates to foraging, and the Whitefish Moon, named by the Algonquin people to signify the spawning season of whitefish.
The Beaver Supermoon will be approximately 221,817 miles away from Earth at its peak, which contributes to its distinctive “super” status. While a supermoon is technically larger than an average full moon by about 7 percent, this difference in size is not easily noticeable. However, the Beaver Supermoon is expected to emit a stunning orange glow, particularly as it rises above the horizon at sunset. This color change is a result of atmospheric effects, where the thicker air near the horizon enhances the visibility of red light.
The term “supermoon” was first introduced by astrologer Richard Nolle in 1979 and has since gained popularity in popular culture. While the term is frequently used, some astronomers express concern that it creates unrealistic expectations regarding the moon”s size. Despite this, supermoons can influence tidal patterns, leading to unusually high tides known as king tides, although these occurrences depend on local conditions.
As the Beaver Supermoon approaches, enthusiasts and casual observers alike are encouraged to take advantage of this celestial event, which promises to be a captivating sight in the night sky.
